Applying Social Cognitive Theory to Understand Perspectives on Child Feeding Practices of Thai Female Caregivers With Young Children With Stunting
Issued Date
2026-03-01
Resource Type
ISSN
17408695
eISSN
17408709
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105024819195
Pubmed ID
41398994
Journal Title
Maternal and Child Nutrition
Volume
22
Issue
1
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Maternal and Child Nutrition Vol.22 No.1 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Vinitchagoon T., Rooppat Y., Sukboon P., Limvilai T., Sivaboonyawong N., Somnuek W., Madtohsoh M., Cetthakrikul N., Pongcharoen T. Applying Social Cognitive Theory to Understand Perspectives on Child Feeding Practices of Thai Female Caregivers With Young Children With Stunting. Maternal and Child Nutrition Vol.22 No.1 (2026). doi:10.1111/mcn.70129 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/114413
Title
Applying Social Cognitive Theory to Understand Perspectives on Child Feeding Practices of Thai Female Caregivers With Young Children With Stunting
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Childhood stunting remains a public health challenge in Thailand. While national surveys provide prevalence estimates, there is limited understanding of the multilevel influences shaping child feeding practices. This qualitative study aimed to explore individual, familial, and socioenvironmental determinants of child feeding practices among Thai female caregivers of young children with stunting. In-depth interviews, guided by Social Cognitive Theory, were conducted with 40 female caregivers (primarily mothers) of children under 5 years old with stunting. Participants were purposively selected from nutrition clinics in four hospitals across four regions of Thailand (Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Satun, and Ubon Ratchathani). Trained local dietitians and nutritionists conducted interviews within the clinics. Transcripts were thematically analysed by two independent researchers, triangulated by input from local interviewers. Children's age ranged from 1.0 to 4.9 years old (mean 3.0 ± 1.1 years). Results showed that caregivers understood the importance of healthful feeding but faced barriers such as financial constraints, low self-efficacy, limited food acceptance, and misconceptions about nutrition. Permissive feeding practices were common due to concerns over picky eating. Family dynamics, food access and availability, and limited engagement with government nutrition programmes further shaped child feeding practices. This study highlights the complex interplay of multilevel factors that influence child feeding practices among Thai caregivers of young children with stunting. Addressing these challenges effectively requires a multifaceted approach for caregivers, including nutrition education, behavioural support, and policies to improve food access and affordability.